Jonathan David nets hat-trick as co-hosts dominate in Vancouver; Switzerland revive campaign with 4–1 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina

Canada’s long wait for a FIFA World Cup victory ended in emphatic fashion as the 2026 co-hosts thrashed nine-man Qatar 6–0 at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver on Thursday.

Having lost all six of their previous World Cup matches across the 1986 and 2022 editions, Canada delivered a historic performance to claim their first-ever win on football’s biggest stage.

Juventus striker Jonathan David led the charge with a hat-trick, while Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba added a goal each. Mohammad Manai also found the net to complete the rout.

The victory, however, was overshadowed by a serious injury to midfielder Ismaël Koné, who was stretchered off after a heavy challenge by Qatar’s Assim Madibo in the 51st minute. Madibo, initially shown a yellow card, was later sent off following a review. Koné received oxygen as he was taken off the pitch, waving to concerned fans.

“It was a great game even before Koné got hurt, but after that it was tough to focus,” David said. “We just wanted the game to end so we could all be together. It will take a few days to sink in, but what we’ve done is historic for the country.”

Qatar were reduced to nine men after Homam El-Amin was also sent off in the first half for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, leaving Canada to fully capitalise on their numerical advantage, particularly in the second half where they scored three additional goals.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was among the crowd, donning a replica national team shirt as Jesse Marsch’s side produced a commanding display.

The result leaves Canada level on four points with Switzerland at the top of Group B, but ahead on goal difference. A draw in their final group match against the Swiss on June 24 in Vancouver will be enough to secure top spot.

Elsewhere, Switzerland bounced back with a convincing 4–1 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Johan Manzambi scored twice, while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka added late goals to strengthen the Swiss push for a place beyond the round of 16.

Bosnia-Herzegovina, who shocked Italy in the playoffs to qualify, are now on the brink of elimination with just one point from two matches.